Keys to a Family-Friendly Church
James Dobson
January 1, 1997
Americans are desperate for a sense of community. Eventually many of these lonely people search for fellowship in a church setting.
—James Dobson
The church I grew up in was the center of our social life; I felt loved and accepted by this extended "family." That little body of believers provided an unshakable foundation of values and understanding, which I still hold firmly. I was three years old when I knelt and gave my heart to the Lord.
I'm still grateful for the teachings I received in those early years.
The greatest contribution the church can make is to draw families to the person of Jesus Christ in an attitude of genuine repentance and renewal. Nothing brings husbands, wives, and children together more effectively than a face-to-face encounter with the Creator of families. In fact, it is almost impossible to stand in his holy presence without recognizing our pettiness and resentment and selfishness with those closest to us.
Each size of church has its contribution to make to the family. Some people thrive better in a crowd; they need the programs and specialists that can be provided only in a large church community. Adolescents, for example, are driven by this "urge to herd," and they feel more secure with larger numbers of their peers.
On the other hand, some people need the intimacy and personal touch of a small church family. In my life, this sense of being known and cared for in a small church hooked me into the fellowship. The warmth I felt there compensated for the lack of sophistication in program and personnel.
Whatever the size of your church, you can become more family friendly.
What Families Need
The local church is the first line of defense for the family. The pastor is there when sickness occurs and heartaches ...
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